Greece Weather by Month
Find out what the weather is really like across the Greek islands and mainland, month by month. Each guide covers average temperatures, sea temperature, rain and daylight, along with what matters for your trip: whether you can swim, how busy it gets, what's open, local festivals and whether it's worth going. Use the filters to find your destination and month.
Browse Weather Guides by Location and Month
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Greece?
For most travelers, late May to June and September to early October are the sweet spots. The weather is warm and sunny, the sea is swimmable and the crowds are smaller than in July and August. Summer is hotter, busier and more expensive, while winter suits city breaks, culture and quiet island life rather than beach holidays.
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When is the sea warm enough to swim in Greece?
From June to September, the sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming almost everywhere in Greece, and August is the warmest month of all. Most places stay swimmable into October, and the southern Dodecanese, including Rhodes, Kos and Karpathos, often stay warm into November. In May, the water is still refreshing rather than warm.
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Do the Greek islands close in winter?
No, the Greek islands don't close in winter. People live on them all year, and the main towns on bigger islands like Crete, Rhodes and Corfu stay lively, with shops, tavernas and services open as normal. However, many resort businesses close from around November to April, especially on smaller islands and in beach areas, and ferries run less often, so check what's open before you book.
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What is the meltemi wind?
The meltemi is a strong, dry northerly wind that blows across the Aegean in summer, especially in July and August. It keeps the heat bearable on islands like Mykonos, Paros and Naxos, but it can make north-facing beaches rough and delay ferries. The Ionian islands, such as Corfu and Kefalonia, don't get the meltemi.
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Is Greece worth visiting in winter?
It can be, as long as you're not looking for a beach holiday. Coastal areas and Crete stay mild, prices are low and the big sights are quiet, but the sea is cold, rain is more common and many island businesses are closed. It's a good time for Athens, Thessaloniki, the mountains and a more local side of Greece. In fact, NakedSantorini, a film by Tony Kariotis, shows Santorini in winter through still views, moving nature and natural sound, with no tourists in sight. Watch the film for free today.
